How sugary beverage taxes affect fast food purchases
The Influence of Sugary Beverage Taxes on Fast Food Restaurant Purchases: An Evaluation Using National Sales Data
This study looks at how taxes on sugary drinks affect what people buy at fast food places, especially in lower-income neighborhoods, to see if these taxes help reduce the consumption of unhealthy beverages linked to obesity and health problems.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | New York University School of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11018614 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the effects of taxes on sugary beverages on the purchasing behavior of fast food customers. By analyzing sales data from a major fast food chain, the study aims to understand how these taxes can reduce the consumption of unhealthy drinks, which are linked to obesity and various health issues. The research focuses on different communities, particularly lower-income areas, to assess the impact of these taxes over several years. The methodology involves comparing sales data before and after the implementation of the taxes to draw causal conclusions.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults over 21 years old, particularly those living in lower-income areas who frequently consume fast food.
Not a fit: Patients who do not consume sugary beverages or fast food may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to reduced consumption of sugary beverages, thereby improving public health outcomes related to obesity and chronic diseases.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that sugary beverage taxes can effectively reduce consumption in grocery stores, suggesting potential success in fast food settings as well.
Where this research is happening
New York, United States
- New York University School of Medicine — New York, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Elbel, Brian — New York University School of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Elbel, Brian
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.